Watchdog timer hierarchy

ABSTRACT

In one example of the technology, via a first independent execution environment of a set of independent execution environments in an integrated circuit, a first watchdog timer is caused to reset on a periodic basis. The set of independent execution environments is configured to have a defense-in-depth hierarchy. The set of independent execution environments includes a first independent execution environment and a second independent execution environment. The first independent execution environment is a most trusted execution environment on the integrated circuit. Via the second independent execution environment: a second watchdog timer is periodically caused to reset on a periodic basis. In response to the second watchdog timer timing out, an interrupt is communicated from the second watchdog timer to the first independent execution environment. In response to the first watchdog timer timing out, at least a portion of the integrated circuit is reset.

BACKGROUND

The Internet of Things (“IoT”) generally refers to a system of devices capable of communicating over a network. The devices can include everyday objects such as toasters, coffee machines, thermostat systems, washers, dryers, lamps, automobiles, and the like. The network communications can be used for device automation, data capture, providing alerts, personalization of settings, and numerous other applications.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Briefly stated, the disclosed technology is generally directed to embedded device security. In one example of the technology, via a first independent execution environment of a set of independent execution environments in an integrated circuit, a first watchdog timer is caused to reset on a periodic basis. In some examples, the set of independent execution environments is configured to have a defense-in-depth hierarchy. In some examples, the set of independent execution environments includes a first independent execution environment and a second independent execution environment. In some examples, the first independent execution environment is a most trusted execution environment on the integrated circuit. In some examples, via the second independent execution environment: a second watchdog timer is periodically caused to reset on a periodic basis. In some examples, in response to the second watchdog timer timing out, an interrupt is communicated from the second watchdog timer to the first independent execution environment. In some examples, in response to the first watchdog timer timing out, at least a portion of the integrated circuit is reset.

Other aspects of and applications for the disclosed technology will be appreciated upon reading and understanding the attached figures and description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples of the present disclosure are described with reference to the following drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various figures unless otherwise specified. These drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

For a better understanding of the present disclosure, reference will be made to the following Detailed Description, which is to be read in association with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating one example of a suitable environment in which aspects of the technology may be employed;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating one example of a suitable computing device according to aspects of the disclosed technology;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a system;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the device controller of FIG. 3; and

FIGS. 5A-5B are a flow diagram illustrating an example process in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description provides specific details for a thorough understanding of, and enabling description for, various examples of the technology. One skilled in the art will understand that the technology may be practiced without many of these details. In some instances, well-known structures and functions have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of examples of the technology. It is intended that the terminology used in this disclosure be interpreted in its broadest reasonable manner, even though it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain examples of the technology. Although certain terms may be emphasized below, any terminology intended to be interpreted in any restricted manner will be overtly and specifically defined as such in this Detailed Description section. Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms take at least the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context dictates otherwise. The meanings identified below do not necessarily limit the terms, but merely provide illustrative examples for the terms. For example, each of the terms “based on” and “based upon” is not exclusive, and is equivalent to the term “based, at least in part, on”, and includes the option of being based on additional factors, some of which may not be described herein. As another example, the term “via” is not exclusive, and is equivalent to the term “via, at least in part”, and includes the option of being via additional factors, some of which may not be described herein. The meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.” The phrase “in one embodiment,” or “in one example,” as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example, although it may. Use of particular textual numeric designators does not imply the existence of lesser-valued numerical designators. For example, reciting “a widget selected from the group consisting of a third foo and a fourth bar” would not itself imply that there are at least three foo, nor that there are at least four bar, elements. References in the singular are made merely for clarity of reading and include plural references unless plural references are specifically excluded. The term “or” is an inclusive “or” operator unless specifically indicated otherwise. For example, the phrases “A or B” means “A, B, or A and B.” As used herein, the terms “component” and “system” are intended to encompass hardware, software, or various combinations of hardware and software. Thus, for example, a system or component may be a process, a process executing on a computing device, the computing device, or a portion thereof.

Briefly stated, the disclosed technology is generally directed to embedded device security. In one example of the technology, via a first independent execution environment of a set of independent execution environments in an integrated circuit, a first watchdog timer is caused to reset on a periodic basis. In some examples, the set of independent execution environments is configured to have a defense-in-depth hierarchy. In some examples, the set of independent execution environments includes a first independent execution environment and a second independent execution environment. In some examples, the first independent execution environment is a most trusted execution environment on the integrated circuit. In some examples, via the second independent execution environment: a second watchdog timer is periodically caused to reset on a periodic basis. In some examples, in response to the second watchdog timer timing out, an interrupt is communicated from the second watchdog timer to the first independent execution environment. In some examples, in response to the first watchdog timer timing out, at least a portion of the integrated circuit is reset.

In some examples, a multi-core integrated circuit has at least two levels of trust. In some examples, the levels of trust may include a security complex at the highest level of security, one category of cores at a second level of trust, and another category of cores with I/O functionality at the lowest level of trust. Other suitable hierarchies of trust may be used in other examples.

In some examples, a separate watchdog timer is used at each level of trust. In some examples, at each level of trust, software at that level must cause the watchdog timer to reset on a periodic basis in order to prevent the watchdog timer from elapsing, which may elapse in a predetermined period of time, such as 1 ms, if the software does not cause the watchdog timer to reset. If the watchdog timer elapses, in some examples, this means that something is wrong, such a program error, that is preventing the software from operating properly. For instance, the software may be stuck in a loop.

In some examples, when the watchdog timer at the highest level of trust elapses, the watchdog timer at the highest level of trust causes the entire integrated circuit to reset. In other examples, however, when the watchdog timer at the highest level of trust may instead reset a portion of the integrated circuit. For example, this watchdog timer may be configured to reset a portion of the integrated circuit such that other portions of the integrated circuit could “gracefully” complete one or more operations. In some examples, when the watchdog timer at a layer other than the highest level of the hierarchy elapses, the watchdog timer sends an interrupt to a higher level in the hierarchy. The watchdog timer might also cause the current level of trust to reset. The higher level of trust that receives the interrupt may respond accordingly, including logging and/or tracking the event, determining when and how the level that sent the interrupt should be released, and/or the like.

Illustrative Devices/Operating Environments

FIG. 1 is a diagram of environment 100 in which aspects of the technology may be practiced. As shown, environment 100 includes computing devices 110, as well as network nodes 120, connected via network 130. Even though particular components of environment 100 are shown in FIG. 1, in other examples, environment 100 can also include additional and/or different components. For example, in certain examples, the environment 100 can also include network storage devices, maintenance managers, and/or other suitable components (not shown). Computing devices no shown in FIG. 1 may be in various locations, including on premise, in the cloud, or the like. For example, computer devices no may be on the client side, on the server side, or the like.

As shown in FIG. 1, network 130 can include one or more network nodes 120 that interconnect multiple computing devices no, and connect computing devices no to external network 140, e.g., the Internet or an intranet. For example, network nodes 120 may include switches, routers, hubs, network controllers, or other network elements. In certain examples, computing devices no can be organized into racks, action zones, groups, sets, or other suitable divisions. For example, in the illustrated example, computing devices no are grouped into three host sets identified individually as first, second, and third host sets 112 a-112 c. In the illustrated example, each of host sets 112 a-112 c is operatively coupled to a corresponding network node 120 a-120 c, respectively, which are commonly referred to as “top-of-rack” or “TOR” network nodes. TOR network nodes 120 a-120C can then be operatively coupled to additional network nodes 120 to form a computer network in a hierarchical, flat, mesh, or other suitable types of topology that allows communications between computing devices no and external network 140. In other examples, multiple host sets 112 a-112C may share a single network node 120. Computing devices 110 may be virtually any type of general- or specific-purpose computing device. For example, these computing devices may be user devices such as desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers, display devices, cameras, printers, or smartphones. However, in a data center environment, these computing devices may be server devices such as application server computers, virtual computing host computers, or file server computers. Moreover, computing devices no may be individually configured to provide computing, storage, and/or other suitable computing services.

In some examples, one or more of the computing devices 110 is an IoT device, a device that comprises part or all of an IoT support service, a device comprising part or all of an application back-end, or the like, as discussed in greater detail below.

Illustrative Computing Device

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating one example of computing device 200 in which aspects of the technology may be practiced. Computing device 200 may be virtually any type of general- or specific-purpose computing device. For example, computing device 200 may be a user device such as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a display device, a camera, a printer, or a smartphone. Likewise, computing device 200 may also be server device such as an application server computer, a virtual computing host computer, or a file server computer, e.g., computing device 200 may be an example of computing device no or network node 120 of FIG. 1. Computing device 200 may also be an IoT device that connects to a network to receive IoT services. Likewise, computer device 200 may be an example any of the devices illustrated in or referred to in FIGS. 3-4, as discussed in greater detail below. As illustrated in FIG. 2, computing device 200 includes processing circuit 210, operating memory 220, memory controller 230, data storage memory 250, input interface 260, output interface 270, and network adapter 280. Each of these afore-listed components of computing device 200 includes at least one hardware element.

Computing device 200 includes at least one processing circuit 210 configured to execute instructions, such as instructions for implementing the herein-described workloads, processes, or technology. Processing circuit 210 may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a graphics processor, a coprocessor, a field-programmable gate array, a programmable logic device, a signal processor, or any other circuit suitable for processing data. Processing circuit 210 is an example of a core. The aforementioned instructions, along with other data (e.g., datasets, metadata, operating system instructions, etc.), may be stored in operating memory 220 during run-time of computing device 200. Operating memory 220 may also include any of a variety of data storage devices/components, such as volatile memories, semi-volatile memories, random access memories, static memories, caches, buffers, or other media used to store run-time information. In one example, operating memory 220 does not retain information when computing device 200 is powered off. Rather, computing device 200 may be configured to transfer instructions from a non-volatile data storage component (e.g., data storage component 250) to operating memory 220 as part of a booting or other loading process. In some examples, other forms of execution may be employed, such as execution directly from data storage component 250, e.g., eXecute In Place (XIP).

Operating memory 220 may include 4th generation double data rate (DDR4) memory, 3rd generation double data rate (DDR3) memory, other dynamic random access memory (DRAM), High Bandwidth Memory (HBM), Hybrid Memory Cube memory, 3D-stacked memory, static random access memory (SRAM), magnetoresistive random access memory (MRAM), pseudorandom random access memory (PSRAM), or other memory, and such memory may comprise one or more memory circuits integrated onto a DIMM, SIMM, SODIMM, Known Good Die (KGD), or other packaging. Such operating memory modules or devices may be organized according to channels, ranks, and banks. For example, operating memory devices may be coupled to processing circuit 210 via memory controller 230 in channels. One example of computing device 200 may include one or two DIMMs per channel, with one or two ranks per channel. Operating memory within a rank may operate with a shared clock, and shared address and command bus. Also, an operating memory device may be organized into several banks where a bank can be thought of as an array addressed by row and column. Based on such an organization of operating memory, physical addresses within the operating memory may be referred to by a tuple of channel, rank, bank, row, and column.

Despite the above-discussion, operating memory 220 specifically does not include or encompass communications media, any communications medium, or any signals per se.

Memory controller 230 is configured to interface processing circuit 210 to operating memory 220. For example, memory controller 230 may be configured to interface commands, addresses, and data between operating memory 220 and processing circuit 210. Memory controller 230 may also be configured to abstract or otherwise manage certain aspects of memory management from or for processing circuit 210. Although memory controller 230 is illustrated as single memory controller separate from processing circuit 210, in other examples, multiple memory controllers may be employed, memory controller(s) may be integrated with operating memory 220, or the like. Further, memory controller(s) may be integrated into processing circuit 210. These and other variations are possible.

In computing device 200, data storage memory 250, input interface 260, output interface 270, and network adapter 280 are interfaced to processing circuit 210 by bus 240. Although, FIG. 2 illustrates bus 240 as a single passive bus, other configurations, such as a collection of buses, a collection of point to point links, an input/output controller, a bridge, other interface circuitry, or any collection thereof may also be suitably employed for interfacing data storage memory 250, input interface 260, output interface 270, or network adapter 280 to processing circuit 210.

In computing device 200, data storage memory 250 is employed for long-term non-volatile data storage. Data storage memory 250 may include any of a variety of non-volatile data storage devices/components, such as non-volatile memories, disks, disk drives, hard drives, solid-state drives, or any other media that can be used for the non-volatile storage of information. However, data storage memory 250 specifically does not include or encompass communications media, any communications medium, or any signals per se. In contrast to operating memory 220, data storage memory 250 is employed by computing device 200 for non-volatile long-term data storage, instead of for run-time data storage. In some examples, performance counter 475 may also be configured to measure latency from a core to a target, such as from MCU 462 to SRAM 458.

Also, computing device 200 may include or be coupled to any type of processor-readable media such as processor-readable storage media (e.g., operating memory 220 and data storage memory 250) and communication media (e.g., communication signals and radio waves). While the term processor-readable storage media includes operating memory 220 and data storage memory 250, the term “processor-readable storage media,” throughout the specification and the claims whether used in the singular or the plural, is defined herein so that the term “processor-readable storage media” specifically excludes and does not encompass communications media, any communications medium, or any signals per se. However, the term “processor-readable storage media” does encompass processor cache, Random Access Memory (RAM), register memory, and/or the like.

Computing device 200 also includes input interface 260, which may be configured to enable computing device 200 to receive input from users or from other devices. In addition, computing device 200 includes output interface 270, which may be configured to provide output from computing device 200. In one example, output interface 270 includes a frame buffer, graphics processor, graphics processor or accelerator, and is configured to render displays for presentation on a separate visual display device (such as a monitor, projector, virtual computing client computer, etc.). In another example, output interface 270 includes a visual display device and is configured to render and present displays for viewing. In yet another example, input interface 260 and/or output interface 270 may include a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (“UART”), a Serial Peripheral Interface (“SPI”), Inter-Integrated Circuit (“I2C”), a General-purpose input/output (GPIO), and/or the like. Moreover, input interface 260 and/or output interface 270 may include or be interfaced to any number or type of peripherals.

In the illustrated example, computing device 200 is configured to communicate with other computing devices or entities via network adapter 280. Network adapter 280 may include a wired network adapter, e.g., an Ethernet adapter, a Token Ring adapter, or a Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) adapter. Network adapter 280 may also include a wireless network adapter, for example, a Wi-Fi adapter, a Bluetooth adapter, a ZigBee adapter, a Long Term Evolution (LTE) adapter, SigFox, LoRa, Powerline, or a 5G adapter.

Although computing device 200 is illustrated with certain components configured in a particular arrangement, these components and arrangement are merely one example of a computing device in which the technology may be employed. In other examples, data storage memory 250, input interface 260, output interface 270, or network adapter 280 may be directly coupled to processing circuit 210, or be coupled to processing circuit 210 via an input/output controller, a bridge, or other interface circuitry. Other variations of the technology are possible.

Some examples of computing device 200 include at least one memory (e.g., operating memory 220) adapted to store run-time data and at least one processor (e.g., processing unit 210) that is adapted to execute processor-executable code that, in response to execution, enables computing device 200 to perform actions.

Illustrative Systems

Some examples of the disclosure are used in the context of a multi-core microcontroller included in an IoT device that operates as a device controller for an IoT device. Examples of the disclosure may also be used in other suitable contexts. A particular example of the disclosure used in the context of a multi-core microcontroller included in an IoT device that operates as a device controller for an IoT device is discussed below with regard to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a system (300). System 300 may include network 330, as well as IoT support service 351, IoT devices 341 and 342, and application back-end 313, which all connect to network 330.

The term “IoT device” refers to a device intended to make use of IoT services. An IoT device can include virtually any device that connects to a network to use IoT services, including for telemetry collection or any other purpose. IoT devices include any devices that can connect to a network to make use of IoT services. In various examples, IoT devices may communicate with a cloud, with peers or local system or a combination or peers and local systems and the cloud, or in any other suitable manner. IoT devices can include everyday objects such as toasters, coffee machines, thermostat systems, washers, dryers, lamps, automobiles, and the like. IoT devices may also include, for example, a variety of devices in a “smart” building including lights, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, occupancy sensors, and the like. The IoT services for the IoT devices can be used for device automation, data capture, providing alerts, personalization of settings, and numerous other applications.

The term “IoT support service” refers to a device, a portion of at least one device, or multiple devices such as a distributed system, to which, in some examples, IoT devices connect on the network for IoT services. In some examples, the IoT support service is an IoT hub. In some examples, the IoT hub is excluded, and IoT devices communicate with an application back-end, directly or through one or more intermediaries, without including an IoT hub, and a software component in the application back-end operates as the IoT support service. IoT devices receive IoT services via communication with the IoT support service. In some examples, an IoT support service may be embedded inside of a device, or in local infrastructure.

Application back-end 313 refers to a device, or multiple devices such as a distributed system, that performs actions that enable data collection, storage, and/or actions to be taken based on the IoT data, including user access and control, data analysis, data display, control of data storage, automatic actions taken based on the IoT data, and/or the like. Application back-end 313 could also be one or more virtual machines deployed in a public or a private cloud. In some examples, at least some of the actions taken by the application back-end may be performed by applications running in application back-end 313.

Each of the IoT devices 341 and 342 and/or the devices that comprise IoT support service 351 and/or application back-end 313 may include examples of computing device 200 of FIG. 2. The term “IoT support service” is not limited to one particular type of IoT service, but refers to the device to which the IoT device communicates, after provisioning, for at least one IoT solution or IoT service. That is, the term “IoT support service,” as used throughout the specification and the claims, is generic to any IoT solution. The term IoT support service simply refers to the portion of the IoT solution/IoT service to which provisioned IoT devices communicate. In some examples, communication between IoT devices and one or more application back-ends occur with an IoT support service as an intermediary. FIG. 3 and the corresponding description of FIG. 3 in the specification illustrates an example system for illustrative purposes that does not limit the scope of the disclosure.

One or more of the IoT devices 341 and 342 may include device controller 345, which may operate to control the IoT device. Each device controller 345 may include multiple execution environments configured in a defense-in-depth hierarchy. Device controller 345 may be a multi-core microcontroller. In some examples, device controller 345 is an integrated circuit with multiple independent execution environment, such as multiple cores, such as at least one central processing unit (CPU) and at least one microcontroller (MCU).

Network 330 may include one or more computer networks, including wired and/or wireless networks, where each network may be, for example, a wireless network, local area network (LAN), a wide-area network (WAN), and/or a global network such as the Internet. On an interconnected set of LANs, including those based on differing architectures and protocols, a router acts as a link between LANs, enabling messages to be sent from one to another. Also, communication links within LANs typically include twisted wire pair or coaxial cable, while communication links between networks may utilize analog telephone lines, full or fractional dedicated digital lines including T1, T2, T3, and T4, Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDNs), Digital Subscriber Lines (DSLs), wireless links including satellite links, or other communications links known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, remote computers and other related electronic devices could be remotely connected to either LANs or WANs via a modem and temporary telephone link. Network 330 may include various other networks such as one or more networks using local network protocols such as 6LoWPAN, ZigBee, or the like. Some IoT devices may be connected to a user device via a different network in network 330 than other IoT devices. In essence, network 330 includes any communication method by which information may travel between IoT support service 351, IoT devices 341 and 342, and application back-end 313. Although each device or service is shown connected as connected to network 330, that does not mean that each device communicates with each other device shown. In some examples, some devices/services shown only communicate with some other devices/services shown via one or more intermediary devices. Also, although network 330 is illustrated as one network, in some examples, network 330 may instead include multiple networks that may or may not be connected with each other, with some of the devices shown communicating with each other through one network of the multiple networks and other of the devices shown communicating with each other with a different network of the multiple networks.

As one example, IoT devices 341 and 342 are devices that are intended to make use of IoT services provided by IoT support service 351.

System 300 may include more or less devices than illustrated in FIG. 3, which is shown by way of example only.

Illustrative Device

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of device controller 445. Device controller 445 may be employed as an example of device controller 345 of FIG. 3. Device controller 445 may include security complex 451, CPU 453, direct memory access (DMA) block 454, trust zone (TZ) DMA block 455, Flash memory 456, Radio block 457, secure static random access memory (SRAM) 458, Interfaces 459, MCU 461, MCU 462, primary advanced extensible interface (AXI) bus 463, secondary AXI bus 464, bridges 465 and 466, AXI to advanced peripheral bus (APB) bridges per peripheral 467, Interfaces 471, GPIOs 472, analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 473, real-time clock (RTC) 474, performance counter 475, and watchdog timers 431-433.

In some examples, device controller 445 enables a device in which device controller 445 is included to operate as an IoT device, such as IoT device 341 or 342 of FIG. 3. In some examples, device controller 445 is a multi-core microcontroller. In some examples, device controller 445 runs a high-level operating system. In some examples, device controller 445 may have at least 4 MB of RAM and at least 4 MB of flash memory, and may be a single integrated circuit. In some examples, device controller 445 provides not just network connectivity, but various other functions including hardware and software security, a monitored operating system, cryptographic functions, peripheral control, telemetry, and/or the like. In addition, device controller 445 may include technology for allowing device controller 445 to be booted in a secure manner, allowing device controller 445 to be securely updated, ensuring that proper software is running on device controller 445, allowing device controller 445 to function correctly as an IoT device, and/or the like.

In some examples, security complex 451 include a security complex (SC) that is the hardware root of trust in device controller 445. In some examples, the security complex is directly connected to the secure MCU in security complex 451. In some examples, the secure MCU in security complex 451 has a very high degree of trust, but is less trusted than the security complex in security complex 451. In some examples, security complex 451 brings up the full system at boot.

In some examples, watchdog timer 431 is a watchdog timer for SC of security complex 451, watchdog timer 432 is a watchdog timer for CPU 453, and watchdog timer 433 is a watchdog timer for MCU 461 and MCU 462.

In some examples, CPU 453 runs a high-level operating system. In some examples, CPU 453 has two independent execution environments: a Secure World execution environment and a Normal World execution environment. The term “secure world” is used broadly to refer to a trusted environment and is not limited to a particular security feature. In some examples, the Secure World execution environment of CPU 453 is also part of the trusted computing base of the system. For instance, in some examples, the Secure World execution environment of CPU 453 has unfettered access to reprogram hardware protection mechanisms, such as firewalls in some examples. In some examples, the Secure World execution environment of CPU 453 does not, however, have access to the internals of the security complex of security complex 451 and relies on the secure MCU of security complex 451 for particular security-sensitive operations.

Radio block 457 may provide Wi-Fi communication. Primary AXI bus 463 and secondary AXI bus 464 may be buses that connect the components shown. In some examples, bridges 465, 466, and 467 bridge the components shown. RTC block 474 may operate as a real-time clock. In some examples, all components in device controller 345 can read from the RTC block 474, but not all components have write access to RTC block 474. Device controller 445 may include various forms of memory, including flash and SRAM, such as flash memory 456 and secure SRAM 458.

In some examples, IO Subsystem 1 461 and IO Subsystem 2 462 are I/O subsystems for general purpose I/O connectivity. In some examples, IO Subsystem 1 461 and IO Subsystem 2 462 each include an MCU.

DMA block 454 may be used to manage data movement for the Normal World execution environment of CPU 453. Trust zone (TZ) DMA block 455 may be used to manage data movement for the Secure World execution environment of CPU 453. In some examples, each IO subsystem also has its own DMA block. Each of the DMA blocks may be configured to support data movement between cores, peripherals, other components, and/or the like.

Each of the cores may have bi-directional mailboxes to support inter-processor communication. Performance counter 475 may be configured to count read requests, write requests, and data type requests for performance monitoring. In some examples, performance counter 475 may also be configured to measure latency from a core to a target, such as from MCU 462 to SRAM 458.

In some examples, the interfaces at block 459 include two Inter-integrated circuit Sound (I2S) interfaces: one for audio input and one for audio output. In other examples, other configurations of interfaces may be employed, and block 459 may include any suitable interfaces in various examples.

In some examples, the MCU in security complex 451 has a very high degree of trust, but is less trusted than the security complex in security complex 451. In these examples, the MCU in security complex 451 controls one or more functions associated with a very high degree of trust. In one example, the MCU in security complex 451 controls power for device controller 445 and/or an IoT device.

In some examples, the Secure World execution environment of CPU 453 is also part of the trusted computing base of the system. For instance, in some examples, the Secure World runtime of CPU 453 (Secure World RT) has unfettered access to reprogram hardware protection mechanisms, such as firewalls in some examples. In some examples, Secure World RT does not, however, have access to the internals of the security complex of security complex 451 and relies on the MCU in security complex 451 for particular security-sensitive operations.

The Normal World execution environment of CPU 453 may be configured to have limited access to such on-chip resources such as memories. In some examples, various security and quality standards (e.g., relatively high standards) may be enforced for code running in this environment but is less trusted than either the code running on the MCU in security complex 451 or the code running in the Secure World of CPU 453.

In some examples, MCUs 461 and 462 are less trusted than the MCU in security complex 451 and less trusted than CPU 453. In some examples, Radio block 457 may include a core, which may be an MCU in some examples. Radio block 457 may provide Wi-Fi functionality and connectivity to the Internet and cloud services such as IoT services. In some examples, Radio block 457 may provide communications via Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), ZigBee, Long-Term Evolution (LTE), and/or other connectivity technology. In some examples, the core in Radio block 457 does not have any access to unencrypted secrets, and is not capable of compromising the execution of CPU 453.

In some examples, each independent execution environment is managed by a single software component executing in a separate execution environment that is referred to the “parent” of the execution environment. In such examples, one exception may be that the hardware root of trust (the security complex of security complex 451 in this example) has no parent. In one particular example, each parent executes in an environment that is at least as trusted as the environments it manages. In other examples, other suitable means of security may be employed. Management operations may include booting and resuming the target environment, monitoring and handling resets in the target environment, and configuring access policy for the target environment. In some cases, certain management operations are performed by a component other than a parent. For instance, in some examples, the Normal World of CPU 453 is the environment that manages MCUs 461 and 462, but receives assistance from the Secure World of CPU 453 to do so.

For instance, in some examples, the MCU of security complex 451 manages Secure World RT of CPU 453, a component in Secure World RT in CPU 453 manages Normal World OS of CPU 453, a component in the Normal World OS of CPU 453 manages Normal World user-mode of CPU 453, and Normal World user-mode services of CPU 453 manages the MCUs 461 and 462 and the core in Radio block 457.

In some examples, not only are independent execution environments managed by a software component from a more trusted execution environment, but different functions are assigned to the different independent execution environments, with more sensitive functions assigned to more trusted independent execution environments. In one particular example, independent execution environments less trusted than the independent execution environment to which it is assigned are restricted from having access to the function. In this way, in some examples, the independent execution environments achieve defense-in-depth based on a hierarchy of trust.

For instance, in some examples, the security complex of security complex 451 is at the top of the hierarchy and is assigned to secrets (e.g., encryption keys), the secure MCU in security complex 451 is next in the hierarchy and is assigned to controlling power, Secure World RT of CPU 453 is next in the hierarchy and is assigned to storage and to write access to a real time clock (RTC), Normal World OS of CPU 453 is next in the hierarchy and is assigned to Wi-Fi, Normal World user-mode applications of CPU 453 is next in the hierarchy and is assigned to applications, and the MCUs 461 and 462 are at the bottom of the hierarchy and are assigned to peripherals. In some examples in which MCUs 461 and 462 are at the bottom of the hierarchy and assigned to peripherals, MCUs 461 and 462 may be referred to as input/output (I/O) cores. In other examples, functions are assigned to independent execution environments in a different manner.

In some examples, each level of the hierarchy of trust, except for the bottom (i.e., least trusted) level of the hierarchy, has control over accepting or rejecting requests from a less trusted level, e.g., in terms of implementing support for the software they handle, and have the ability to rate limit or audit the requests from less trusted levels, and to validate requests from lower levels, e.g., to ensure that the requests correct and true. Also, as previously discussed, in some examples, each level of hierarchy except the top (i.e., most trusted) level has a parent that is responsible for managing the lower (i.e., less trusted) level, including monitoring whether the software on the lower level is running correctly.

In some examples, the layers of the hierarchy make use of secure communications channels and firewalls. For instance, in some examples, secure MCU RT of CPU 453 has two message queues, configured such that, based on the hardware, one of the queues can only be used in SW, and one that can be used from NW. In one particular example, if a message comes from the SW queue, then based on the hardware the message must have come from the SW, and is therefore more trusted than a message that came from NW. In other examples, other suitable means of security may be employed.

Additionally, in some examples, apart from the highest layer of the hierarchy, no layer of the hierarchy starts without a higher level of the hierarchy having validated the layer and, after validating the layer, allowed the layer to start. Also, in these examples, a layer of the hierarchy has the ability to stop any lower level of hierarchy, for example, at any time. Accordingly, in these examples, device controller 445 has the software capability of each layer of the hierarchy having complete dominance over lower (i.e., less trusted) levels of the hierarchy in terms of stopping and starting and running of the lower levels of the hierarchy.

In some examples, the security complex of security complex in security complex 451 is the hardware root of trust and the highest, most trusted level of the defense-in-depth trust hierarchy. In some examples, the security complex contains keys, secrets, encryption engines, and/or the like. In some examples, the security complex stores secrets, performs functions such as key generation, encryption, decryption, hashing, other cryptographic functions, other security-related functions, and/or the like. In some examples, the security complex is able to check the secret value stored in a one-way writable memory such as an e-fuse, one time programmable element, and/or the like.

In some examples, when device controller 445 is powered on and its power management unit (PMU) has stable power, it releases the security complex from reset. In some examples, the security complex is at the core of device controller 445's trusted computing base. In some examples, the security complex drives the secure boot process. In one particular example, cores are restricted from executing code until the security complex has enabled it to do so. In other examples, other suitable means of security may be employed.

Some examples of device controller 445 may be a multi-core microprocessor that includes, for example, at least one CPU and at least one microcontroller, in addition to flash memory with multiple banks as previously discussed. In some examples, the multi-core processor may be an integrated circuit with multiple cores. In some examples, the multi-core processor may be used to provide functionality for a connected device. In some examples, device controller 445 may provide network connectivity to the connected device, and may also provide various other functions such as hardware and software security, a monitored operating system, cryptographic functions, peripheral control, telemetry, and/or the like. In addition, device controller 445 may include technology for allowing device controller 445 to be booted in a secure manner, allowing the device to be securely updated, ensuring that “proper” software is running on the device, allowing the device to function correctly as an IoT device, and/or the like. Security complex 451 may include the hardware root of trust of device controller 445 as the basis for the security functions provided by device controller 445.

In some examples, flash memory 456 is an external NOR flash memory that includes a flash controller and dual quad serial public interface (QSPI) NOR flash devices (the two memory banks, in this example) in parallel, where each flash memory bank is a separate integrated circuit accessed via a separate channel. However, the disclosure is not so limited, and any suitable memory configuration and/or suitable set of memories may be employed.

In some examples, two or more of the independent execution environments in device controller 445 each have their own watchdog timer. For instance, in some examples, device controller 445 has three watchdog timers—one for the security complex, one for CPU 453, and one for the I/O cores 451 and 452. The I/O cores 451 and 452 may have separate timers, or may instead have one timer for each core with each timer for the I/O cores being at the same level of trust. In this example, there are three levels of trust, each level of trust with its own watchdog timer—one level of trust being the security complex, another level of trust being CPU 453, and the another level of trust being the I/O cores.

In other examples, more or less than three levels of trust may have a watchdog timer. For instance, in some examples, rather than treating CPU 453 as one level of trust for the purposes of the watchdog timers, in some examples, the SW of CPU 453 and the NW world of CPU 453 are each treated as separate layers of trust, so that the SW of CPU 453 and the NW of CPU 453 each have their own watchdog timer.

In the specific example illustrated in FIG. 4, there are watchdog timers for three levels of trust: watchdog timer 431 is a watchdog timer for SC of security complex 451, the highest level of trust; watchdog timer 432 is a watchdog timer for CPU 453, the second highest level of trust; and watchdog timer 433 is a watchdog timer for MCU 461 and MCU 462, the lowest level of trust.

In some examples, each watchdog timer is reset periodically by its corresponding level of trust. Resetting the watchdog timer is often referred to as “patting” the watchdog. During normal functionality, in some examples, the watchdog timer continues to be reset on a periodic basis by the corresponding level before the watchdog timer expires. For instance, an example watchdog timer may expire in 1 millisecond (ms) since it was last reset.

In some examples, the watchdog timer is reset by the software at the corresponding level of trust writing to a predetermined memory map in the address. In some examples, a particular sequence of writes or a particular data value is required to enable the write to take effect to reset the timer. This may prevent rogue software from resetting the watchdog or accidental resetting of the watchdog.

In some examples, if one of the watchdog timers (e.g., watchdog timer 431, 432, or 433) elapses, this means that something is wrong, such a program error, that is preventing the software from operating properly. For instance, the software may be stuck in a loop.

In some examples, when the watchdog timer at the highest level of trust (e.g., watchdog timer 431) elapses, the watchdog timer at the highest level of trust causes the entire integrated circuit 445 to reset. In other example, however, when the watchdog timer at the highest level of trust may instead reset a portion of the integrated circuit. For example, this watchdog timer may be configured to reset a portion of the integrated circuit such that other portions of the integrated circuit could “gracefully” complete one or more operations.

In some examples, when the watchdog timer at a layer other than the highest level of trust elapses, such as when watchdog timer 432 or watchdog timer 433 elapses, the elapsing watchdog timer sends an interrupt to a higher level of trust in the hierarchy. For example, if watchdog timer 432 reset, watchdog timer 432 may send an interrupt to the SC. If watchdog timer 433 resets, watchdog timer 433 may send an interrupt to CPU 453, the SC, or to both CPU 453 and the SC. The watchdog timer might also cause the current level of trust to reset. For example, if watchdog timer 432 elapses, watchdog timer 432 may cause CPU 453 to reset. If watchdog timer 433 elapses, watchdog timer 433 may cause I/O cores 461 and 462 to reset.

In some examples, when a watchdog timer at a level of trust other than the highest level of trust expires, the level of trust associated with the watchdog timer resets, but the other levels of trust continue to run. When the level of trust reset by the watchdog timer restarts, the level of trust may evaluate the lower level(s) of trust and determine whether to restart those level(s).

In addition, a watchdog timer at a layer other than the highest level of trust may also cause I/O pins of associated circuitry to be put in a pre-defined default state during reset or a period associated with the reset. For example, such a watchdog timer may cause one or more I/O pins of an associated circuit to be set as high-impedance pins during reset, either by itself, or in conjunction with software and/or additional hardware.

The higher level of trust that receives the interrupt may responded accordingly, including logging and/or tracking the event, determining when and how the level that sent the interrupt should be released, and/or the like.

In some examples, each watchdog timer is a hardware watchdog timer with hardware wires to cause the corresponding reset and interrupts.

Many suitable variations may also be employed in various examples. For instance, in some examples, each level of trust may include a multi-staged watchdog, in which, for example, the interrupt and/or the reset do not occur until the final stage expires, with other corrective actions and/or warnings occurring at earlier stage expirations.

Also, in some examples, multiple watchdog timers may be included at a particular level of trust. For instance, rather than having one watchdog timer at the level of the I/O cores, as illustrated in the specific example of FIG. 4, in some examples, each I/O core may have a separate watchdog timer, where each watchdog timer is reset by its corresponding core, sends an interrupt to a higher level of trust if the watchdog timer expires, and which may reset its corresponding I/O core if the watchdog timer expires.

Illustrative Processes

For clarity, the processes described herein are described in terms of operations performed in particular sequences by particular devices or components of a system. However, it is noted that other processes are not limited to the stated sequences, devices, or components. For example, certain acts may be performed in different sequences, in parallel, omitted, or may be supplemented by additional acts or features, whether or not such sequences, parallelisms, acts, or features are described herein. Likewise, any of the technology described in this disclosure may be incorporated into the described processes or other processes, whether or not that technology is specifically described in conjunction with a process. The disclosed processes may also be performed on or by other devices, components, or systems, whether or not such devices, components, or systems are described herein. These processes may also be embodied in a variety of ways. For example, they may be embodied on an article of manufacture, e.g., as processor-readable instructions stored in a processor-readable storage medium or be performed as a computer-implemented process. As an alternate example, these processes may be encoded as processor-executable instructions and transmitted via a communications medium.

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate an example dataflow for a process (580). In some examples, process 580 is performed by device controller, e.g., device controller 445 of FIG. 4. In other examples, processor 580 may be performed in other suitable devices. The illustrated example of FIG. 5 illustrates steps in a synchronous linear manner for the sake of simplicity.

In the illustrated example, step 581 occurs first. At step 581, in some examples, via a first independent execution environment of a set of independent execution environments in an integrated circuit, a first watchdog timer is caused to reset on a periodic basis. In some examples, the set of independent execution environments is configured to have a defense-in-depth hierarchy. In some examples, the set of independent execution environments includes a first independent execution environment and a second independent execution environment. In some examples, the first independent execution environment is a most trusted execution environment on the integrated circuit.

As shown, step 582 occurs next in some examples. At step 582, in some examples, via the second independent execution environment: a second watchdog timer is caused to reset on a periodic basis. As shown, decision step 583 occurs next in some examples. At decision step 583, in some examples, a determination is made as to whether the second watchdog timer has timed out. If not, the process advances to step 585 in some examples. However, if at step 583 it is determined that the second watchdog timer has timed out, the process proceeds to step 584, where, in some examples, an interrupt is communicated from the second watchdog timer to the first independent execution environment.

As shown, decision step 585 occurs next in some examples. At decision step 585, in some examples, a determination is made as to whether the first watchdog timer has expired. If not, the process may then proceed to the return block, where other processing is resumed.

If instead, at decision step 585, it is determined that the first watchdog timer has expired, step 586 occurs next in some examples. At step 586, in some examples, at least a portion of the integrated circuit is reset. The process may then proceed to the return block.

CONCLUSION

While the above Detailed Description describes certain examples of the technology, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the technology can be practiced in many ways. Details may vary in implementation, while still being encompassed by the technology described herein. As noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the technology should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features, or aspects with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the technology to the specific examples disclosed herein, unless the Detailed Description explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the technology encompasses not only the disclosed examples, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the technology. 

We claim:
 1. An apparatus, comprising: a device including at least one memory adapted to store run-time data for the device, and at least one processor that is adapted to execute processor-executable code that, in response to execution, enables the device to perform actions, including: an integrated circuit, including: a set of independent execution environments configured to have a defense-in-depth hierarchy, wherein the set of independent execution environments includes a first independent execution environment and a second independent execution environment, and wherein the first independent execution environment is a most trusted execution environment on the integrated circuit; a first watchdog timer, wherein the first independent execution environment is configured to cause the first watchdog timer to reset on a periodic basis, and wherein the first watchdog timer is configured to cause at least part of the integrated circuit to reset in response to the first watchdog timer timing out; and a second watchdog timer, wherein the second independent execution environment is configured to cause the second watchdog timer to reset on a periodic basis, and wherein the second watchdog timer is configured to send an interrupt to the first independent execution environment in response to the second watchdog timer timing out.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second watchdog timer is further configured to reset the second independent execution environment in response to the second watchdog timer timing out.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the set of independent execution environments further includes a third independent execution environment that is less trusted than the second execution environment, the integrated circuit further includes a third watchdog timer, the third independent execution environment is configured to cause the third watchdog timer to reset on a periodic basis, and wherein the third watchdog timer is configured to send an interrupt to at least one of the first independent execution environment or the second independent execution environment in response to the third watchdog timer timing out.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein at least two independent execution environments in the set of independent execution environments are running on general purpose cores with differing capabilities from each other, and wherein the general purpose cores with differing capabilities from each other include at least a first microcontroller and a first central processing unit (CPU).
 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the set of independent execution environments further include a secure world runtime on the first CPU, and a normal world operating system on the first CPU.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first independent execution environment includes a security complex that is configured as a hardware root of trust for the integrated circuit.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the set of independent execution environments further includes a third independent execution environment that is less trusted than the second execution environment, the integrated circuit further includes a third watchdog timer, the third independent execution environment is configured to cause the third watchdog timer to reset on a periodic basis, and wherein the third watchdog timer is configured to send an interrupt to at least one of the first independent execution environment or the second independent execution environment in response to the third watchdog timer timing out.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the second independent execution environment includes a first core, the third independent execution environment includes a second core, and wherein the second core is configured as an input/output core.
 9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the second independent execution environments includes a secure world runtime on a first core, and wherein the third independent execution environment includes a normal world operating system on the first core.
 10. A method, comprising: via a first independent execution environment of a set of independent execution environments in an integrated circuit, wherein the set of independent execution environments is configured to have a defense-in-depth hierarchy, the set of independent execution environments includes a first independent execution environment and a second independent execution environment, and wherein the first independent execution environment is a most trusted execution environment on the integrated circuit: causing a first watchdog timer to reset on a periodic basis; via the second independent execution environment: periodically causing a second watchdog timer to reset on a periodic basis; in response to the second watchdog timer timing out, communicating an interrupt from the second watchdog timer to the first independent execution environment; and in response to the first watchdog timer timing out, resetting at least a portion of the integrated circuit.
 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising, in response to the second watchdog timer timing out, resetting the second independent execution environment.
 12. The method of claim 10, wherein the first independent execution environment includes a security complex that is configured as a hardware root of trust for the integrated circuit.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the set of independent execution environments further includes a third independent execution environment that is less trusted than the second execution environment, and wherein the integrated circuit further includes a third watchdog timer, the third independent execution environment is configured to cause the third watchdog timer to reset on a periodic basis, the method further comprising, via the third watchdog timer, in response to the third watchdog timer timing out, sending an interrupt to at least one of the first independent execution environment or the second independent execution environment.
 14. The method of claim 10, wherein the set of independent execution environments further includes a third independent execution environment that is less trusted than the second execution environment, and wherein the integrated circuit further includes a third watchdog timer, the third independent execution environment is configured to cause the third watchdog timer to reset on a periodic basis, the method further comprising, via the third watchdog timer, in response to the third watchdog timer timing out, sending an interrupt to at least one of the first independent execution environment or the second independent execution environment.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein at least two independent execution environments in the set of independent execution environments are running on general purpose cores with differing capabilities from each other, and wherein the general purpose cores with differing capabilities from each other include at least a first microcontroller and a first central processing unit (CPU).
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the set of independent execution environments further include a secure world runtime on the first CPU, and a normal world operating system on the first CPU.
 17. A method, comprising: configuring a watchdog timer to send an interrupt to a first independent execution environment of a set of independent execution environments on an integrated circuit in response to the first watchdog timer timing out, wherein the set of independent execution environments further includes a second independent execution environment, the first independent execution environment is a most trusted execution environment on the integrated circuit; and configuring the watchdog timer to be reset on a periodic basis by the second independent execution environment.
 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising configuring the watchdog timer to reset the second independent execution environment in response to the second watchdog timer timing out.
 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the first independent execution environment includes a security complex, and wherein the second independent execution environment includes a first core.
 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the second independent execution environment includes a secure world runtime on a first core. 